Safeplants

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Spider Milkweed (Asclepias viridis and Asclepias asperula)

Spider Milkweed, known for attracting Monarch butterflies, is a fascinating plant with several interesting characteristics.

Spider Milkweed, like other Asclepias species, contains a milky sap that can be irritating.
The plant produces seed pods.

Spider Milkweed, like other Asclepias species, contains a milky sap that can be irritating.
The plant produces seed pods.

The mature seed pods of some species curve upward, resembling antelope horns, hence the common name "Antelope Horns."
One source mentions possible medicinal uses for Spider Milkweed, though details are not provided.
One source notes, "CAREFUL- This plant is said to be toxic unless cooked first."

Scientific Name: Asclepias viridis and Asclepias asperula
Common Names: Spider Milkweed, Green Antelopehorn, Antelope Horns, Green Milkweed, Green-flowered Milkweed, Spider Antelope Horns
Family: Asclepiadaceae (Milkweed Family) / Apocynaceae (Dogbane Family)

Spider Milkweed plays a critical role in the monarch butterfly life cycle, serving as a food source for monarch caterpillars.
It is a high-value nectar source for butterflies.

Spider Milkweed is an erect to spreading perennial herbaceous plant, typically growing 6 to 24 inches (approximately 15 to 60 cm) tall.
Some species, like Asclepias asperula, can grow to 1 meter (3ft 3in) in height and width.
It can be upright and smooth to sparsely hairy.
The plant is clump-forming and may have multiple stems emerging from the root crown.
It has large flowers and thin, lanceolate leaves.
The flowers have purple hoods against greenish-yellow.
Mature seed pods curve upward approximating the form of an antelope horn.